Robotic tyre changing apparatus and associated hardware and methods

Abstract

A tyre changing apparatus 1, for use with tyres on large haul trucks employed in mining operations. The apparatus includes a tyre handler. The grab unit of the tyre handler can provide a stable work platform from which robots may execute tasks. Hence, a first robot is disposed adjacent to the proximal end of arm and a second robot is disposed adjacent to the proximal end of the second arm. This apparatus may be utilised by the robots so as to spread the gap in a lock ring to assist when removing and installing the lock ring. An o-ring installation device may be utilized by the robots when installing an o-ring.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a robotic tyre changing apparatus and associated hardware and methods. Embodiments of the present invention find application, though not exclusively, in the mining industry for use with the wheels and tyres of large haul trucks and dump trucks.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed in Australia or elsewhere before the priority date of this application.[0003]The removal of wheels and tyres from large mining haul trucks and dump trucks is typically achieved with the use of a mechanical wheel handler to support the wheel whilst a worker removes...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0017]Preferably the circular housing is sized so as to receive the lock ring whilst the gap in the lock ring is being maintained in a spread apart state by the spreader unit to thereby stablise the lock ring against twisting.

Problems solved by technology

Typically this involves the worker operating hand tools or mechanised nut runners (such as pneumatic impact drivers, or the like) to loosen and remove each of the nuts whilst working within a region that is unsafe due to a risk that the tyre may fall or explode.

Due to the size and weight of the lock ring, this poses a substantial risk of injury.

Such o-rings are typically manually removed and subsequently inserted by a worker and this manual process exposes the worker to a risk of crushing or exposure to an explosion.

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